Regarded as one of the world’s most recognised dogs, the Dalmatian is a beloved pal to firefighters, nobility, and families all around Australia.
Breed Snapshot
Size Medium Dog (20-31kg); 48 – 60cm in height
Coat High shedding short coat dog that should be brushed regularly
Energy Moderate to high energy dog that should be walked daily as well as played with regularly
Lifespan 11 – 13 years
Country of origin Northern Europe
Breed type Closely resembling the lab, except for its unique polka-dotted coat, the Dalmatian is a companion dog that is intelligent and fun loving
Other names “Dal” or “Spotty Dick”
Great breed for:
- Home with yard
- Families with kids
An Introduction to the Iconic Spotted Dalmatian
Coveted by kids, firefighters, nobility, and just about anyone else who crosses paths with this unique and beautiful dog, the Dalmatian is the ultimate companion pet. Dalmatians are loyal almost to a fault and love spending time with their human family. This dog breed has been featured in an assortment of major motion pictures, as a mascot of fire departments all around the world, and best friend for children.
Dalmatians are an ancient breed that first originated in Europe before being debuted in Asia and all of the rest of the world. Dalmatians have a lot of energy and were originally bred as guard dogs for livestock and to run next to horse-drawn buggies. They were favored among nobility and acted as an accessory when their owners were in public. Today, Dalmatians are bred as family pets and as show dogs.
What Do Dalmatians Look Like?
Dalmatians are one of the most recognised dog breeds in the world, thanks to their short coat of vivid black and white spots. No two Dalmatians look exactly alike, which adds to their charm even more. Their coats are short and their fur is coarse to the touch.
Dalmatians are medium size dogs that measure in at 48 – 60cm and weigh between 20 – 31kg. Their body structure and facial characteristics resemble that of a lab. This dog is leggy and features a slender build that helps them move fast when they run.
This dog has a protruding snout and the skin around its face is slightly wrinkled. Dalmatians have floppy ears and a long skinny tail. Dalmatians are deep chested dogs and are muscular.
What Diet Should I Feed My Dalmatian?
Dalmatians should be fed a steady diet of high-quality dog food to ensure that they receive the proper nutrients they need. This breed can eat human food as well as dog food, but you should consult with your vet as dogs are allergic to some people food. You can feed your dog treats, but they should be limited as your dog can gain weight if it overindulges and does not receive adequate exercise.
How Do I Groom My Dalmatian?
The Dalmatian has a short coat of course hair that is extremely easy to take care of. Dalmatians do not need to go to a groomer unless you want to give him or her the ultimate treat of a doggy spa day. This breed sheds quite a bit, so you should make it a point to brush your dog’s fur often. Their course hair tends to get imbedded into furniture and is hard to get out.
You will need to clean your dog’s ears regularly as floppy ear dogs are prone to ear infections. Use a special dog ear cleaning solution instead of inserting a swab into its ears as you can cause your dog serious injury if you swab too deep in the ear. Provide your dog with chew toys and brush its teeth regularly to promote good oral health.
As with just about all dog breeds, you should trim your Dalmatian’s nails at least once a month so they do not get too long and snag as they walk; this can cause pain to your dog as well as infections of the paws.
How Do I Train My Dalmatian?
Dalmatians are social dogs that love to please their owners, so building trust is an important component of training this gentle and sweet breed. Dalmatians are sensitive dogs that should only be trained using positive reinforcement techniques, complete with treats. To train a Dalmatian, you should be patient and make it seem like a game for this dog.
If you have never trained a Dalmatian before, consider signing your dog up for obedience lessens whilst he or she is a puppy. Your dog will learn how to interact with people and other dogs. Dalmatians that are not properly trained when they are puppies can grow up to have anxiety toward people.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dalmatians
Can I leave my Dalmatian home alone?
Dalmatians are the type of dog that need to go to work with you or be left in the care of a dog sitter as they suffer from separation anxiety when left home alone for more than a couple of hours.
Are Dalmatians Hypoallergenic?
No. Dalmatians shed quite a bit, which can send you into allergy attacks. If you have moderate to severe allergies, this is not the right breed for you.
What is the lifespan of a Dalmatian?
Dalmatians can live from 11 to 13 years with proper exercise and a good diet.
How much exercise does a Dalmatian need?
Your Dalmatian has lots of energy and needs to live an active lifestyle to be at its happiest. Not only should you walk your dog regularly, but you should also plan special playtime with your dog out in the yard.
Do Dalmatians really live in firehouses?
Yes! Dalmatians still live in some firehouses all around the world and serve the important function of keeping rodents away as well as protecting the house when the firemen are away.
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